Printers and Scanners for Ubuntu (12.04, or 13.04)

[Doug]

On 09/05/2013 02:53 AM, Gilles Gravier wrote:
> Hi, gang!
> 
> I'm working with a small company (whyopencomputing. ch) that sells
> Ubuntu (12.04 LTS 64bits) pre-equiped laptops and desktops in
> Switzerland. We want to recommend to our customers one or more printers
> + scanners that will run with no, or as little as possible configuration
> on Ubuntu (ideally 12.04 LTS 64 bits and above).
> 
> Ideally, we're looking for a printer+scanner machine. USB and/or networked.
> 
> We've tried some Brother machines... but the latest one we tried,
> Brother has 32 bit drivers, so you have to manually install 32 bit
> compatibility libraries, and then install their drivers. Not something
> we want our customers (very basic users) to attempt. I know geeks will
> do it easy. But not everybody. And since the drivers are proprietary, we
> don't want to pre-bundle them either.
> 
> I want something that prints directly with CUPS or LPR.
> I want something that scans directly with xsane or Simple Scan.
> I want something that's recent enough that it can still be purchased in
> mainstream shops.
> I want something that's energy star compliant.
> I want at least some printers that print duplex.
> 
> Yeah... I know. I want a lots of things. But I don't want a poney. And
> I'm aware it's not Xmas yet. :)
> 
> Any suggestions? Prior experience?
> 
> Thanks a lot!
> 
> Gilles
> 
> 
> 
I'm using an Epson WP-4530 all-in-one color inkjet. Works very well with
Linux, it has 64-bit drivers you can download in rpm and deb formats,
does duplex, prints pretty fast. Connects via USB or wireless. Can
copy from a small stack (it says, I haven't tried more than one at a
time). Scans flawlessly with XSane. Does not seem to use the ink up too
fast, either. I don't know if this model is still available, but  their
download comes with a long list of supported printers, and if you pick
one, you could go first to their website and download the ppd file, and
make sure the printer you want is listed.
(I have no connection to Epson--I'm just a satisfied user.)

--doug

-- 
Blessed are the peacemakers..for they shall be shot at from both sides.
--A.M.Greeley